New Vintage Place | Laura and DJ

What happens when you combine a rustic, beautiful venue, the perfect summer color palette, tons of joy and energy in the air, details of intentionality and sentimentality, a stunning white dress, a dapper white coat, and endless smiles? You get Laura and DJ’s wedding, that’s what! Anyone who knows DJ and Laura knows this to be true of them: Laura is going to treat you with kindness and an easy-going, calming presence, and DJ is a joyous and magnetic celebrator. The best part about this couple is that you can tell that they are each other’s biggest fan. All of these traits shone from them throughout their day!

It was the industrial yet modern feel – the bright exposed brick, the tall, open ceilings, the countless cool backdrops –  that drew Laura and DJ to pick New Vintage Place in Grand Rapids for their wedding. The venue was accented beautifully by hues of white, sage, and peach incorporated throughout the space. From the fresh light blue of the bridesmaid dresses to the groomsmen’s classic black tuxes, everyone and everything came together perfectly. DJ’s bright smile matched the bright white of his tux jacket; but the real showstopper was Laura in a modern, fitted gown and a long and full statement veil. Her hair and makeup tied the whole look together and she seemed to be floating on air all day! The thoughtfully curated decorations, put together almost entirely by family members of the couple, were both beautiful and sentimental. Right as the venue opened, family launched into “go-mode” – putting together florals and placing them throughout the space. In fact, all of the florals, aside from bouquets and boutonnieres, were done by the families themselves!

The ceremony was held on the second floor of the building, in front of a modern, floral-dressed triangular arch. But this wasn’t just a rental arch, this arch was built by the bride’s father; in hopes that it will someday serve as a focal point for the couple’s own backyard! A sweet ceremony left many guests in tears, admiring the couple’s love for one another and honoring those who were unable to be present in body to celebrate with them on their wedding day. One of the most touching images was a chair reserved right up front in memory of the mother of the bride. The love in the room was overflowing. DJ was brought to tears as Laura was accompanied down the aisle by her Dad. The couple said “I do”, and the rest is history!

Following the ceremony was a handshake and hug-filled cocktail hour, complete with signature cocktails named after the couples’ pups, Ned and Lucy! Lush greenery, baby’s breath, floating candles, gold chargers, and coral napkins decorated the tables. The ceremony arch was moved to sit as a backdrop to the head table, with a fun neon sign reading “The Ashley’s” placed right behind the couple. Margaritas were sipped,  cakes were cut, bouquets were tossed, dances were danced, celebration was had! The night ended with a sparkler send-off, and The Ashley’s were sent into their new marriage adventure!

Beauty: Megan Cassner Hair, Josh Thiel | Entertainment: Moments in Time | Catering: Gilmore Catering | Florals: Eastern Floral | Photography: Tina Rae Photo | Rentals: Grove and Co Design, Special Occasions | Venue: New Vintage Place | Coordination: Stellaluna Events